Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine whether cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) would enhance employment outcomes in worker's compensation clients who were seeking employment. Participants were randomly assigned to a standard job search assistance group that met for 4 hours/week for four weeks, or to a group that received standard job search assistance for 4 hours/week for the first two weeks and CBT for 4 hours/week for the next two weeks. Depression, Anxiety and Stress scores were measured prior to and on completion of the intervention, and employment outcomes were assessed at four- and ten-week follow-up. Affective states decreased and employment was found more rapidly after CBT than after standard job search assistance. These findings indicate that CBT has a useful role in the rehabilitation of people on worker's compensation who are seeking employment.